Get Defended with the Guidance of Our Atlanta Traffic Offense Attorney
In order to lawfully operate a motor vehicle, a driver must have up-to-date registration papers for the vehicle. Driving without valid registration is a criminal offense in Georgia, meaning a conviction may result in jail time and fines, as well as additional criminal penalties. This is not a mere traffic ticket that can be paid and that may only result in points assessed on your driving record. If you have received a citation for driving without registration, you face the very real possibility of having a criminal record if you are convicted.
At the Law Office of Matthew T. McNally we offer afree initial consultation to discuss your citation. As an experiencedAtlanta traffic offenses attorney, Mr. McNally understands what's at stake. He can talk to you about your charges and determine what he can do to best assist you. The firm represents clients throughout Atlanta and the surrounding areas in the state of Georgia.
Penalties for Driving Without Valid Registration in Atlanta, Georgia
A first offense of driving without valid registration is a misdemeanor. A conviction may result in up to 12 months in county jail as well as fines of up to $1,000. The court will likely impose increased penalties for a second, third or subsequent offense.
Contact an Experienced Atlanta Traffic Lawyer
You have the right to consult a lawyer to help:
- Address and understand your charges
- Learn about your legal rights
- Get the legal protection you are granted under the U.S. Constitution.
By acting quickly and consulting an attorney as soon as possible, you will increase your chances at achieving a positive case outcome and can therefore avoid imprisonment and having a criminal record for the rest of your life.
Contact Atlanta traffic lawyer Matthew McNally today for your free case evaluation.
FAQs
A first offense of driving without valid registration is a misdemeanor. A conviction may result in up to 12 months in county jail as well as fines of up to $1,000. The court will likely impose increased penalties for a second, third or subsequent offense.
How much is a ticket for expired registration in Georgia? ›
Expired tag (59 days or less) – $125. Expired tag (60 days or more) – $135. Improper display of tag – $135. Improper registration (failure to obtain Georgia tag) – $135.
How do I clear my suspended registration in GA? ›
Registration Reinstatement After Suspension
- Obtain and keep continuous Georgia liability insurance coverage.
- Pay a lapse fine of $25.
- Pay a reinstatement fee of $60.
- Pay any other registration fees and vehicle ad valorem taxes due (these fee and tax amounts can be obtained from the County Tag Office)
1. Is there a grace period after my birthday to get my tag renewed? No.
Can I drive without registration in Georgia? ›
Any person owning or operating any vehicle on the public highways and streets of this state without registering and obtaining a license plate to operate the vehicle in the timeframe required or without renewing the registration and license plate during their registration period shall be guilty of a criminal offense.
Can you drive a car without registration in Georgia? ›
It is illegal to drive or allow someone else to drive a vehicle with a canceled, suspended or revoked registration, or if the vehicle is uninsured.
What happens if you get pulled over with expired registration in GA? ›
Improper registration or failure to obtain a tag in the state of Georgia can result in fines that are approximately one hundred thirty-five dollars. Lack of a county tag typically results in approximately a thirty dollar fine an individual's first offense.
What happens if you get caught driving with an expired tag Georgia? ›
Driving with an expired tag in Georgia can result in fines, license suspension, and even vehicle impoundment. It`s important to renew your tag before it expires to avoid these consequences.
What is the code for expired registration in Georgia? ›
Georgia code section 40-2-20 states that anyone who violates this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Motorists who are charged with operating an unregistered vehicle by law enforcement, will typically have that vehicle towed to an impound lot.
How do I get around a suspended registration? ›
There are 3 steps in clearing your suspended registration:
- Purchased liability insurance. Liability insurance only covers the damages that you are responsible for causing to third parties. ...
- Pay the reinstatement fee. The fee is $14 and can be made here.
- Wait for the suspended registration to be lifted automatically.
Suspension of Vehicle Registration
If no payment is made AND no new insurance information is received within 30 days of the “Notice of Pending Suspension” the registration is suspended. During this period: A license plate will not be issued, transferred, replaced, or renewed. The vehicle cannot be driven.
How much is a ticket for suspended registration in GA? ›
A Suspended Registration charge requires a minimum $500 fine, this charge goes on your driving history, and will suspend your driver's license. The license suspension is for 120 days, and there is a limited permit for work, school, etc. However, it is always best to avoid having your license suspended.
How long can I ride around with expired tags? ›
While some states might offer a short grace period (a few days to a month) after tags expire, it's not a guarantee. Law enforcement officers can technically ticket you the day after your tags expire. It's always best to renew your tags before their expiration date.
What is the penalty for late tag renewal in Georgia? ›
Late Fees. Late penalties are 10% of the ad valorem tax or no less than $5.00 plus 25% of the tag fee. Late penalties begin the next business day after your birthday/expiration date. To avoid having the payment returned, please include your GA DL number and current telephone number with your renewal.
How do I renew my expired tag in Georgia? ›
You can renew your registration online, at a Georgia MV Express Self-Service Tag Kiosk (in participating counties), in person, by mail, or by phone. You can renew online by visiting the Georgia DRIVES website.
What happens if you don't register your car in Georgia? ›
If you do not register your vehicle within 30 days, penalties and fines are assessed. New residents are required to pay a tag fee, a title fee, and a one-time title ad valorem tax (title tax) of 3%. The full amount is due upon titling any motor vehicle.
Can I drive while waiting for registration sticker Georgia? ›
If the registration date is missed, it is unwise to drive your vehicle until the new registration sticker is displayed on your license plate.
How much are car registration fees in Georgia? ›
Georgia Vehicle Purchase Tax, Title and License Fees
Tax, title and license fees charged when purchasing a vehicle in Georgia are: Tax: 7% of the vehicle's Fair Market Value. Title: $18. License Registration: $20.
How much does it cost to register a car in Georgia from out of state? ›
- Annual registration fee - $20.
- Title Fee - $18.
- Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) - 3% of vehicle fair market value. Find estimated cost of TAVT.
